Breastfeeding and Infant birth Injury, Congenital Anomolies, and Illness

Question 1

Why are postmature infants at risk of poor feeding?

Answer 1

• Aging placenta, increasing risk of hypoxia and low tolerance for birth stress
• Increased risk of MEC aspiration
• Decreased amniotic fluid increases risk of cord compression
• may become LGA and have increased risk for shoulder dystocia
• reduced glycogen stores in the liver increases risk of hypoglycemia

Question 2

Birth trauma effects on breastfeeding

Answer 2

Forceps:
- can cause neurologic injuries
- trauma to facial nerves can occur and impact latching or sucking
failure can result in shoulder dystocia and brachial plexus injury (interfere with stabilization and breast shaping with hands)
Vacuum:
- increase risk of cranial hemorrhage (all types)

Question 3

Can babies with Hypoxic brain injury benefit from breastmilk?

Answer 3

yes. colostrum is very important for these babies as the gut has suffered hypoxic damage. Recovery of ability to feed orally may take weeks to months and require intensive support.

Question 4

Can babies with PKU breastfeed?

Answer 4

Yes, if combined in calculated volumes with a phenyl-aline free formula, reassessed weekly.

Question 5

A good breastfeeding position for infants with Down Syndrome (or low tone for other reasons)

Answer 5

DanCer hold

Question 6

Infant conditions that may require modification/careful attention to breastfeeding

Answer 6

CF, Down syndrome, Esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, GERD, pyloric stenosis, congenital heart defects, respiratory disorders (laryngomalacia, tracheomalacia, laryngeal webs, laryngeal clefts, vocal cord paralysis, velopharyngeal insufficiency)

Question 7

acute illness which is a common cause of breastfeeding strike

Answer 7

otitis media